I replace the ignition switch(key cylinder) a while back in my '89 F 150. It broke recently. The switch was not hard to turn but I had to turn it so far forward that sometimes I would have to use pliers for assistance. I replace it with a new switch the other day. Sometimes it will start within the "normal" turning range and then other times it has to be turned really far forward. Is this a key switch cylinder problem or something more.

Replaced switch (key lock cylinder) in my 1989 F-150. Third one--little rod at the end of the cylinder kept breaking off. I assumed because I was having to turn the switch so far forward to start the truck. After installing the last key switch, I dropped the steering column and adjusted the switch "module" located on the steering column shaft under the dash. I slid it up a little so the "rod" doesn't have to go down as far to start the truck. I went back out the next day and truck wouldn't start. Battery was dead. I know I did have power when turn the switch back, I guess it is called ACC but I did make sure that nothing was "on" when the switch was in the off position. Battery has date stamp of 9/08 on it. I removed covers and "water" was low in all 6 holes of the battery. Is this my battery or did I do something wrong when I "adjusted" the switch?

My 1989 ford F150 won't start. When I turn the ignition on I get nothing. I was getting the electronic fuel pump and a strange loud buzzing noise but the starter wouldn't turn over. Now it doesn't do anything. The interior light dims dramaticly when the switch is turned on. I had the battery checked and it is fine. I replaced the fender mounted solenoid (starter relay) switch. At one point there was light buzzing coming from one of the relays on the driver's side interior fender. Also I did a jumper test from the battery to the starter relay and it just "clicked"--(this is a brand new part). Any ideas on what this could be?

I recently posted 2 questions about my 1989 Ford F150 and haven't received any answers or suggestions. Is there a reason no one will respond? Am I not including enough information or am I asking too many questions about the same vehicle?

How can I retrieve codes on my F150 without a scan tool? Will I get a code even if the power dies as soon as I turn the switch to "ON" position? Battery has charge and the solenoid(starter relay)is new. If I have the battery charger on to give it a power "boost" the fuel pump will run continuously but it still won't start.

My 1989 Ford F150 has 348,000 miles on it. My Dad bought it brand new in 1988. I have had it since 1994. Never had anything done to the engine. I have had transmission work twice and some work done to the throttle body, but other than that just minor stuff over the years. Radiator, alternator, fuel reservoir bowl, harmonic balancer,--stuff like that. I try to do a lot of the work myself but I am NOT a mechanic. It needs valve cover gaskets, the A/C stopped working, both power windows are dead, and I am having starting problems. Should I keep tinkering (spending less money but a lot of my time), take it to a mechanic(less of my time but a lot more money), and just let the truck out to pasture?

Sounds like within the Switch.

It may take several days for the right expert to come and see your post. We are not paid employees but just people who give of their spare time. Also at other times no one may know your answer

I am wondering if some of my posts are not getting through. One question was asked on Jan 19th and today is February 23rd. I know that no one here is paid and I really appreciate all the helpful information that I have received since being a member.

NO need to post responses. I have the issues regarding this 1989 Ford F150 resolved. It turned out to be a problem with the battery cables. There was no visible sign of corrosion and one cable end was brand new. I cleaned what appeared to be a film off the positive terminal and scraped the inside of the positive cable terminal with a screwdriver. I also disconnected a fusible link that lead from the negative terminal and cleaned to small prongs insided this connection. I am not sure which of these two actions corrected the problem but my truck starts fine now.

Some posts get overlooked, good you got it, I should have given a more detailed answer.

How do you put the rod from steer wheel, to ignition starter switch?

[GMC 1989 c1600, 1989,there is a rod that come from the steer column, and it hook onto the ignition starter switch, can't seem to get hook up, where will lay down flat.

[QUOTE=c moore;3558687][GMC 1989 c1600, 1989,there is a rod that come from the steer column, and it hook onto the ignition starter switch, can't seem to get hook up, where will lay down flat. How do you hook it up proper?